Liz Kolb Clinical Assistant Professor

Teacher Education
March 25th, 2015
RE: Michele Zmich
As a fellow educator, current professor of teacher education and former middle school teacher and technology coordinator, I am
pleased to write this letter of recommendation for Michele Zmich for a position as a K-8 teacher in a face-to-face or virtual
school.
For the past year I have had the privilege of teaching, learning from, and working with Michele. I met Michele when she was a
student of mine in the graduate course Teaching with Digital Technologies at the University of Michigan. While critics often say
that teachers are unwilling and uninterested in modifying their teaching to meet new demands, Michele is by far the exception.
Michele impressed me with her willingness for integrating 21st Century technology tools into her own teaching and learning.
Furthermore, Michele grasped the underlying philosophy concerning teaching 21st Century students with 21st Century technology
tools. Michele was an enthusiastic student and quick study. Practical and thoughtful, Michele developed course-related projects
that she was able to implement in her own teaching. In addition, Michele volunteered her time to become a moderator the
national 4T virtual education technology conference during May 2015. In addition, Michele took the initiative to apply for and
was accepted to present on digital safety at this same national virtual conference on education technologies. Michele is well
schooled in not only how to teach face-to-face but can easily work in a blended or virtual teaching environment. Her webinar
and virtual classroom skills are impeccable, well structured, interactive and engaging. In addition, unlike many student teachers,
Michele was always interested in doing anything she could to further her education around digital technologies, she enjoyed the
process of learning how to be a great teacher. She impressed me greatly. These are just a few examples of how Michele is not
afraid to take risks in her teaching, try new technologies, and develop 21st Century students who are digitally aware. Michele is
extremely thoughtful about the technologies she uses, always weighing all sides of the controversies around technology tools, and
not making rash judgments based on one article or one opinion.
Michele has been a stand out in our competitive teaching program. I have mentioned a few examples that illustrate Micheles
dedication, enthusiasm and competence; there are so many others. I would be delighted to answer any questions or elaborate
further on Micheles qualifications and character. Michele Zmich is an excellent candidate to fill any traditional or virtual
teaching position; without hesitation I highly recommend her.
Sincerely,

Liz Kolb, Ph.D

Clinical Assistant Professor
Teacher Education
610 East University Avenue, Suite 1302
Ann Arbor, MI 48109

T: 734.649.2563
elikeren@umich.edu



Liz Kolb Clinical Assistant Professor
Teacher Education

610 East University Avenue, Suite 1302

Ann Arbor, MI 48109

T: 734.649.2563
elikeren@umich.edu